But in the world’s best competition, Suncorp Super Netball, which position is the most critical in putting together wins?
It is a tough question, but NSW Swifts coach Briony Akle says ultimately the buck stops in the defensive line.
With shooters like Jhaniele Fowler and Romelda Aiken dominating the goal circle, Akle says it is critical to have a strong defensive presence to curb their influence.
“At the moment, I would say it is the goal keeper,” she says when asked which position is the most important.
“There are so many targets in every team, the defence is crucial in my opinion. Trying to get the ball from seven-foot shooters is a pretty big task.”
The job doesn’t rest solely with the goal keeper, however. Both the Queensland Firebirds and Melbourne Vixens have found success in shutting Fowler down by starving her of supply through the midcourt.
Akle’s Swifts will come up against the Queensland Firebirds and their star shooter Aiken this weekend and she says that midcourt pressure has been a focus at training all year.
“It is absolutely imperative that the wing defence and centre are working together at getting that ball early before it even hits the circle’s edge,” Akle says.
“We have had a big focus on that and I am sure every team has had the same focus, on winning the ball early.”
The Swifts and Firebirds will line up against each other on Sunday, the same day NSW and Queensland do battle in State of Origin in rugby league.
While the codes are very different, Akle expects that state versus state rivalry to bleed into their clash at the Brisbane Entertainment Centre.
“Obviously we are looking for the same result as the Blues in the first match,” she says.
“Taking (Queensland) on this Sunday, there should be a bit of extra energy on the court.”
The Swifts claimed a thrilling win against the Firebirds in round one, with both teams showing improvement since then and sitting in the Rebel Sport top four.
Akle says she is pleased with the development of her young roster and their ability to win games under pressure.
“We would have liked to have won a few more bonus points, but at the end of the day the goal is about finishing games and actually winning.”
